The ultimate circuit of the Everest Region including Everest Base Camp

This is the ultimate trek of the Everest region. Starting from the famous Khumbu Valley, home of the Sherpas, we acclimatise before following the trail taken by many of the great Everest climbers and tackle some of the most incredible passes and summits one can trek in the Himalayas. During this circular trek we are constantly rewarded by amazing views of the highest mountains in the world, glacial lakes and quiet valleys. With most of the walking above 3600m this is not for the novice, but will appeal to those who are fit and have previously trekked at altitude.

Highlights

The ultimate circuit of the Everest Region including Everest Base Camp

Cross three passes: the Kongma La, Cho La and Renzo La with amazing views of Everest and other Himalayan giants

Exodus has a longstanding relationship with our local partner in Nepal, having worked with the family business, passed from father to son, for over 30 years. We employ local leaders, guides and staff throughout and work with family-run hotels, such as the Hotel Royal Singi wherever possible.

Exodus has set up and supported many projects in Nepal over the decades, from installing solar cookers and donating smokeless stoves (a safer means of cooking, which helps prevent eye and lung problems), to supporting a tree nursery in Braga (in the Annapurnas) and helping supply water and hydro-electric power to several villages.

Following the 2015 Nepal earthquake, Exodus’ emergency fundraising appeal raised over a quarter of a million pounds thanks to our loyal customers and friends. This enabled us to provide emergency relief (shelters, food and medical supplies), to rebuild homes and schools, and to run a medical camp in spring 2016 in the remote village of Thulopatel in partnership with volunteers from Nepal Medical College. Over 1,500 patients from rural communities were treated for a variety of ailments, to whom medical facilities are not normally readily available. Many of our previous projects (both water pipes and stoves) were damaged in the earthquake - in 2017 we started repairing and replacing these.

Exodus also worked with Health Partnership Nepal and sponsored their medical camp in Charikot in 2017 as well as sponsoring more than 400 Freedom Kits (providing sanitary wear) for women in Nepal – we will be continuing with this project in 2018.

To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here…

Day 3

Today is free for sightseeing in Kathmandu. You may wish to visit the monkey temple at Swayambhunath, one of the largest Buddhist Stupas in the world at Bodnath, or the most important Hindu temple in the valley at Pashupatinath. Various sightseeing tours can be booked and paid for locally. For more details of all of these optional activities please refer to the Optional Excursions section. There will also be a full trek briefing today.

Hotel Royal Singi (or similar)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 4

We fly to the mountain airstrip of Lukla (2,800m), and head northwards up the valley of the Dudh Kosi (or 'milk river'). We descend from the small plateau, down into the forested valley. The trail crosses several tributary streams and we have some tantalising views before reaching the small settlement of Phakding (2,650m), where we will spend our first night.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 2,652m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 5

Heading out of Phakding we follow the Dudh Kosi northwards. This day's walk takes us through magnificent forests with glimpses of the mountains ahead. We cross the river several times by bridges as we pass through the villages of Benkar, Monzo and Jorsale. A final bridge brings us to the foot of the steep climb to Namche. Halfway up this ascent we may get our first glimpse, cloud-permitting, of the summit of Everest appearing majestically behind the great ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse. A last 300m of climbing brings us to Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital and the main town in the area. Namche is a prosperous Sherpa town and an important trading centre. It has a weekly market on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning but the town bustle all day every day with trekkers, coffee shops, bakeries and stores selling all kinds of trekking and climbing gear as well as Tibetan souvenirs.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 3,440m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 6

We climb steeply out of Namche past the airstrip at Shyangboche, to the Everest View Hotel, the highpoint of our day at 3,880m. Built by the Japanese this spectacularly situated hotel with wonderful views of Everest and Ama Dablam is an ideal place for a tea break. Descending through forest we come to Khumjung, where we have lunch close to the Sir Edmund Hillary School. After lunch, we walk up to Kunde and visit the Edmund Hillary Hospital. The twin villages of Kunde and Khumjung are set below Khumbila, the rocky peak sacred to all Sherpas. For much of the walk, we have great views of Ama Dablam and other Himalayan giants. We walk back down through Khumjumg, to the monastery. Sadly it was damaged in the earthquake but is now being repaired. Inside is a small box and after paying the entry fee (which goes towards the repairs) we will be shown the only Yeti skull in the world! Descending to the main trail we spend the night at Kyanjuma (3,600m).

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 3,600m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 7

This morning we descend to the river; we cross it at the little settlement of Phunki Thangkha at 3,250m, then climb steeply through the forest to Thyangboche at 3,867m. We will be here by lunchtime and in the afternoon, we will visit the famous monastery. The sunset and sunrise on the fantastic panorama of mountains surrounding us are not to be missed - Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse and Ama Dablam provide a wonderful backdrop to our teahouse. Look out for Himalayan Tahr in the forest surrounding the monastery.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 3,867m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 8

The trail from Thyangboche leads downhill through a forest of conifers, birch and rhododendrons. The trail passes the nunnery at Deboche to cross a bridge over the Imja Khola, whose valley we now follow. The trail then enters Pangboche, at 3,900m, the highest permanent settlement in this valley. We are above the tree line now. A short climb brings us to Shomore, where we have lunch. After lunch we continue climbing to Dingboche, at 4,530m. Dingboche is a summer settlement and here the great peaks of Ama Dablam, the ridge of Nuptse-Lhotse, Tawoche and Chalotse surround us.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,350m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 9

We spend this day at Dingboche to continue our acclimatisation. Those who are adapting well to the altitude can climb Nangkartshang Peak at 5,100m. From this hill the views are even more spectacular - Chalotse and Tawoche tower above us, Ama Dablam rears up across the valley and in the distance, we can see Makalu.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,350m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 10

The trail ascends the valley gently towards Island Peak and Chhukung, a small settlement at 4,730m. From Chhukung we will ascend Chhukung Ri (5,546m) and from here we can look directly across the valley to the fantastic snow and ice formations on Ama Dablam and the Amphu Labsa.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,730m)

Trek Profile: 5.5km/3hrs to Chhukung, + 4km/3.5 hrs Chhukung Ri

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 11

An early start for a tough and very long day as we cross our first pass. We turn away from the main valley and head up a side valley towards the Kongma La. As we ascend the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular as the ridge of Nuptse appears above us. We can see the glaciers of Kongmatse ahead and the rocky peak of Pokalde is to our left. Finally, we reach a small lake before the last steep scramble to the top of the pass. From the top (5,535m), we are surrounded by peaks and glaciers in all directions. The descent is long and steep and finally brings us to the Khumbu Glacier, a real sting in the tail as we must cross it at the end of the day to reach Lobuje (4,930m) a tiny yak pasture with a few teahouses in the summer. The sunset on Nuptse towering above us is not to be missed.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,930m )

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 12

Another long day so we start very early, following the Khumbu Glacier northwards to Gorak Shep (5,180m). The trail undulates by the side of the Khumbu Glacier on the rocky moraine. It will take us approx. 3hrs to reach Gorak Shep, where we have a rest and something to eat. We stock up on snacks and water as there are no tea houses from here to Base Camp. Leaving Gorak Shep we trek across the sandy flat at Gorak Shep and climb onto the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. The trail ascends the side of the glacier for a couple of hours before descending onto the rocky glacial moraine itself. The trail winds up and down through fascinating ice seracs to the area known as Everest Base Camp (5,364m), where in spring, we may see some of the expedition teams as they prepare to summit the mountain. From the Base Camp we get fantastic close-up views of the Khumbu Ice Fall. Nuptse towers above us and Pumori rears up behind us. We retrace our steps to Gorak Shep.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 5,180m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 13

This morning we climb steeply above Gorak Shep to the small peak of Kala Pattar, 'Black Rock', at 5,545m, from where we can look down over the camps of the various Everest expeditions. This climb affords a most magnificent view of the Khumbu Glacier and above all a close-up view of the world's highest mountain. We return to Gorak Shep and retrace our steps to Lobuje. (Please note that due to bad weather we may change the order in which we do the walks to Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar).

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,930m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 14

Following the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier we head down the valley before turning off above the Chola Tso Lake towards our next pass, the Cho La. Above us are the twin peaks of Tawoche and Chalotse. We stay tonight in the small basic tea house at Dzongla (4,840m). For the energetic there will be a chance en route to ascend Awi Peak (5,245m), a little-known viewpoint but well worth the effort for the views across to Everest Base Camp.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,840m)

Walk profile: 6km/4 hrs to Dzongla, + optional 4km/3-4 hrs Awi Peak

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 15

The ascent of the Cho La is very steep and not easy, especially in heavy snow conditions. At the top of the pass (5,420m) we cross the icy sloping surface of the glacier - a true mountain experience - as snow peaks and glaciers now surround us. Initially the descent is very steep and can be icy as it zig zags down the moraine. The trail then becomes easier as we finally reach the lodges at Dragnag, where we stay tonight.Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,700m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 16

An easy day today after the exertions of the last few days, as we climb onto the terminal moraine of the Ngozumpo Glacier, which is the largest in the Nepal Himalaya. A magnificent, but quite tough walk, across the glacier brings us to the walled meadows and lodge set next to the azure blue lake at Gokyo (4,750m). There is time this afternoon to rest and take in the views or the energetic may want to explore further up the Gokyo Valley.

Teahouse sleeping altitude 4,750m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 17

A day to explore the magnificent scenery at Gokyo. There is a chance to ascend Gokyo Ri (5,360m.) which is set above the lake and enjoys probably the most magnificent mountain panorama in the Khumbu. Mountains surround us and include four of the seven highest peaks in the Nepal Himalaya: Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse and Makalu. In the afternoon it is also possible to visit the fourth glacial lake.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,750m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 18

Leaving this wonderful desolate mountain arena we climb up the steep barren rocky path to our last pass, the Renzo La (5,345m). From the top the views are truly magnificent. We can still see Everest in all its glory surrounded by Nupste, Lhotse and Makalu. Gokyo Lake is a tiny pinprick way below us and, looking over the pass are the peaks of Rolwaling. We pass Rermo Lake and continue on down to Lungden for the night.

Teahouse (sleeping altitude 4,350m)

Meals included:
Breakfast

Day 19

We descend to meet the trail from the Nangpa La, which leads into Tibet, and we may well meet Tibetan traders, with their caravans of yaks laden with carpets, salt and hides. Following the Bhote Kosi Valley we head south to Thame with its spectacular monastery. From Thame we follow the valley down to Namche.

Essential Info

Visas

Nepal

Most nationalities require a visa for Nepal, which can be obtained in advance or on entry. If you wish to apply before departure the current visa cost is £20 for a 15-day visa and £35 for a 30-day visa for UK passport holders. The current cost of a visa on arrival is US$25 for 15 days, US$40 for 30 days or if extending your stay $100 for 90 days. All are multiple entry. The visa on arrival fee can be paid for in cash in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling or Euros. Application forms are available in the immigration hall (or for electronic passports, there are visa registration machines which, after inserting your passport, automatically fill out a form for you. If you use the machine you will not need a passport photo). You must first join the queue to pay the visa fee and then go to the relevant immigration desk to obtain your 15, 30 or 90-day visa stamp. If you use the paper form to obtain a visa on arrival then you will also need one passport photo (a photo is not required if you use the electronic registration machines but we recommend you bring one with you anyway in case, for any reason, the machines cannot read your passport). There can be long queues for visas on arrival.

Non UK nationals should check requirements with their nearest embassy (a few nationalities are not permitted visas on arrival).

Vaccinations

Nepal

There is low to no risk of malaria throughout Nepal and antimalarial tablets are not usually advised although may be considered for certain higher risk groups; you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. The risk is highest in the low lying southern ‘terai’ districts bordering India.

A yellow fever certificate is only required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of transmission.

Dengue fever is a known risk in Nepal. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Most of our trips to Nepal go to high altitudes where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip Notes for further advice on AMS.

Eating and Drinking

Breakfast is included throughout the trip. On trek the breakfast will be a set menu usually consisting of porridge, toast and egg. Any additional items that are not included in the set menu should be ordered and paid for separately. We do not include lunch and dinner on trek allowing you to choose what you want to eat and when. The menus in the lodges are almost identical to one another but offer a varied choice, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal bhat to pizza and apple pie.

Dhal bhat is the staple diet in Nepal and comes in many different forms but generally comprises some curried lentil dhal and meat or vegetables, some rice, and a pickle/chutney. Another popular snack is momos; a type of Nepalese dumpling, fried or steamed, filled with meat or vegetables.

Although meat is available in the teahouses, we advise against eating it on trek. The meat has often been carried in the heat from lower altitudes for several days before reaching the lodges, and can cause stomach upsets or illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money - we recommend using hand sanitiser.

If you buy imported food and drink whilst on trek you will spend more than the Trip Notes suggest.

Drinking Water

Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 litres per person per day.

We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal’s trekking areas.

All teahouses will provide cold water free of charge, if requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you bring a reusable bottle with a wide opening (Nalgene or similar) with you and use a SteriPEN to treat it with. A SteriPEN is a handheld UV water purifier – small, lightweight and battery powered so easy to pack for a trek. In Nepal’s trekking regions most of the bottled water isn’t strictly ‘mineral water’ anyway but is UV treated, so it’s exactly the same technology. It’s quick to use, far more effective than purification tablets, and the water is ready immediately. It’s fine to use a SteriPEN on non-boiled water so long as it isn’t cloudy or full of sediment (which is uncommon in these regions).

SteriPENs are widely stocked on Amazon, outdoor shops and other online retailers; look for the latest models but avoid USB charging ones. Better still, a SteriPEN will pay for itself over the course of the trek and you won’t leave behind a single plastic bottle – you will end up spending the same or even less than you would on bottled water, plus you can keep it for future trips.

If you prefer not to invest in a SteriPEN, the teahouses also sell boiled water for approx. Rs150-300 per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle.

Weather

The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10º C at 3,600m and progressively lower the higher we go. Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.

Post Monsoon/autumn: Mid September to November. This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are usually above 20ºC. Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. Daytime temperatures will range from 10ºC at 3600m to much lower the higher we go. The days crossing the passes can be very cold. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as minus 15ºC or lower at the higher altitudes in November.

Pre Monsoon/spring: March to May. Both day and night temperatures will be warmer in general but haze will often build up in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35ºC in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring. There can be snow on the passes in spring.

Snow can be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes and often in spring. There will always be snow/ice on the top of the Cho La as it is a glacier. If a pass is closed due to snow an alternative route will be chosen by your leader.

Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.

Is this trip for you?

The High Passes of Everest trek is graded 'tough' (activity level 7) and involves 18 day's point-to-point walking with full porterage throughout. Please read a description of our Activity Levels, found on our website.

This trek is mostly at high altitude in remote areas. The maximum altitude we reach is 5546m and the average is 3900m - we ask you to refer to the 'altitude warning' within the Trip Notes. This trek is recommended for those who have previously walked at high altitude, are physically fit and have plenty of stamina. The rewards include the best views possible of the world's highest mountains.

Most of the trails are good, but some scrambling and walking on rock, scree, ice and snow should be expected. There are also some steep ascents and descents and long days when crossing the passes. The trail crosses a few modern suspension bridges, all of which have mesh sides but anyone with a strong fear of heights or vertigo may find them difficult. The nights will be cold, often well below freezing. The Cho La crosses a glacier so this will always be on ice and snow. It should be noted that in very bad conditions, for example when there has been heavy snowfall, it might not be possible to cross a pass, in which case a lower route will be taken.

Walking hours stated within the itinerary are given as approximates only. Timings exclude lunch stops and will vary depending on the pace of your group.

Why Trek with Exodus?

• Over 30 years’ experience of organising treks in Nepal.• 100% of clients who did this trek with Exodus in 2017 would recommend us. • ‘Ask an expert’ – talk to Exodus office staff who have done the treks themselves.• Small group size (max. 12 clients).• Experienced English-speaking local leaders who are qualified in first aid and trained in recognising and dealing with altitude sickness.• One of the highest staff to client ratios on trek - 1 staff member: 4 clients. • All staff (leaders, guides and porters) are fully insured and paid a fair wage.• Carefully planned ascent rates and itineraries with built-in acclimatisation and contingency days. • Staff carry oxygen and a first aid kit. • Self-assessment AMS cards used to monitor every client at altitude.• Established protocol for Lukla flight delays – see below.

Internal Flight Delays

Please note that adverse weather conditions at Lukla airport occasionally mean that flights to/from Kathmandu cannot operate. We include an additional day at the end of the itinerary to allow for this, but on occasion, persistent bad weather may delay the start of your trek or your return to Kathmandu.

Should there be a lengthy delay at the start of a trip we will aim to provide a shortened Everest trek, but if adverse weather conditions continue and the main objective of the trek become impossible to reach, an alternative trek to another region of Nepal will be offered. When fixed-wing planes are unable to fly, but helicopters to Lukla are available, clients may choose to travel by helicopter; in this event, the price per person will be approximately US$500-600 per person, of which Exodus will cover half.

Should there be a significant delay at the end of your trek, we will endeavour to get you on the first fixed-wing flights to Kathmandu available. Should helicopters be able to fly, we will consider paying for these on a case by case basis to enable clients to meet their international flights. In the case of persistent adverse weather, Exodus will re-book international flights for Flight Inclusive clients, but please be aware that clients booking on a Land Only basis will be responsible for re-booking their onward travel and for any associated costs.

Accommodation

Hotel & Lodges

This tour spends four nights in a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu and eighteen nights on trek in lodges (teahouses).

In Kathmandu we usually stay at the Hotel Royal Singi, located within walking distance of the Thamel district. All rooms have en suite facilities and there is a restaurant, a bar and an outdoor courtyard. There is complimentary Wi-Fi in the hotel lobby and Wi-Fi codes are available from reception for the rooms. There is an Exodus desk in the hotel reception area and an Exodus representative will usually be available daily in the mornings and evenings.

The teahouses are basic but adequate; please be realistic about what to expect in the mountains. We ask that you read our Nepal Destination Guide for further details about the lodge facilities.

The hub of the teahouse is the dining room, usually decorated with colourful traditional rugs, sometimes with a stove or heater (some lodges charge a fee to put the heater on). Most teahouses sell snacks and other essentials such as tissues, soap and toilet paper. Almost all lodges have electricity but it is not wholly reliable and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a torch is essential. Electrical charging facilities are generally available only in the dining room (charged at approx. Rs150-350 per hour per device). Many of the lodges use solar power so sometimes there is not enough electricity for charging. Many lodges have Wi-Fi these days – in some areas it works well but in others it is slow and temperamental.

We book twin-share bedrooms throughout this trek. Beds with foam mattresses, bedsheets and a pillow are provided. Bedrooms are generally unheated and can get cold at night so you will need to bring or hire a sleeping bag.

Most lodges have only one or two basic toilets and sometimes these are located outside the main lodge building. Toilets are usually Asian ’squat’ style; although many lodges have now installed ‘western style’ seated ones. Toilet paper is not provided so you should bring your own or buy it locally (please dispose of it the bin provided – do not put it in the bowl). If there is not a flush handle, there should be a container of water to pour down – if it is empty (or frozen) please either refill it or ask the lodge to.

Some lodges now have hot 'showers' (charged at approx. Rs250-500 per shower). Sometimes a hot shower is simply a bucket of hot water and not a shower head. Standards of cleanliness vary especially in the peak trekking season and in winter when the water freezes at night. Please report any problems to your leader or the lodge and be vigilant in your personal hygiene regime – use soap or hand sanitizer gel before and after toilet breaks, snacks and meal times.

As a general rule, the higher altitude you go to, the more basic the lodges and the more expensive food and services become.

Extra Accommodation

If you require any additional accommodation in Kathmandu either before or after the tour, we can book this for you (subject to availability), please enquire with your Sales Consultant.

Single Accommodation

If you prefer your own room, we offer a single supplement for the four nights in Kathmandu only (subject to availability). While in the tea-houses, single rooms cannot be guaranteed but if a single room is available that night, you can pay locally on a day by day basis.

Reviews

Nepal Trekking

Ground service was excellent. The guides were professional, well organized and efficient. The distance hiked each day was well planned and made sense.
Administrative support was marginal - office forgot to get me at airport. The trip notes have misleading information

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Completing the trek

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be in good shape before you attempt this trek.
Double check with the home office to insure someone will meet you at the airport.
Do your own computation of elevation gain - do not rely on the trip notes.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Put the calendar date on each day of the trip notes and resend the revised trip notes with the joining instructions.

Everest Base Camp

Fantastic trip with incredible scenery in a beautiful country. Getting into the real scenery with an authentic experience and a great trekking challenge. Loved it!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching Base camp. Whilst not the highest or hardest trek I’ve done it was tough and seeing our group of varied age and ability persevere to reach the target was amazing. Kala Pattar trek and watching the sunrise hit the mountain tops on a crystal clear morning.

What did you think of your group leader?

Brilliant! Helpful, friendly, knowledgable. Bikash got to know each of us and any issues or challenges we had to support us on the trek. He was good company and a great guide.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Prepare well, follow the trip notes advice, it’s very accurate. Be prepared to hire helicopters to get to lukla if your flight is delayed as once it starts to back up it’s chaos.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Wonderful, highly recommend it, it’s nit for you if you want luxury but it is if you want amazing scenery and a real adventure in a beautiful country!

High Passes to Everest Base Camp

I have always had love on mountains and visiting Himalaya to see some of the highest and greatest mountains in the world had always been on my list to do and High Passes to Everest Base camp was a wonderful trip to do. We were so lucky with weather the whole trip giving us amazing scenery and view every day and despite a little struggle for me with altitude at some point during the trip I loved every minute of it.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were so many inspirational moment along the trip. The beauty of the mountains with a new scenery every day. All the passes and peaks we attend. The Prayer Service at the monastery in Thyangboche. All the amazing people I met along this journey, my fellow travelers, leader and assistant guides. I also found it a proud moment for the whole group to finish the trip together despite some struggle along the way. Every day was special with it’s own adventure.

What did you think of your group leader?

You could tell that Pasang Bomjan had love and respect for the mountains and everywhere we stopped along the way, if it was for a tea break or accommodation for the night, you could also tell that he was loved and respected. He also had real love for his culture and religion which he also shared with his group and I am just thankful for getting a little insight to this beautiful and peaceful religion I knew so little about. With his eyes on everything he also went above and beyond for his group and if it wasn't for him I don't think the whole group would ever had managed to finish the trip. Given a group of people with so many different personality, fitness level and ability and getting them through eighteen days at that high altitude where so many things can put you off demands an incredible lot of skills and insight for a group leader to have and Pasang measured up to all of them. Guarding the group safety and health nothing went pass him and he was always there if you needed him. Caring for people when feeling sick, giving encouragement if you needed motivation or support or just a warm hug and beside this all just a nice and pleasant person to be around. Some people you are just happy and grateful you met and for me Pasang Bomjan is one of them.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is a wonderful trip to do but because of long endurance and toughness (grated 7) it requires some fitness level, so make sure you read the trips notes through. About half of the trekking time you are also sleeping above 4500 m so be prepared you might feel it at some point. Sleeping at this altitude you also need good sleeping bag because nights get quite cold and down jacket will also be very useful. For water I prefer to use SteriPEN and for backup water purification tablets (if SteriPEN runs out of battery or breaks), but you can also buy bottle water or boiled water. Sun screen is very necessary (for me and my white skin SPF 50), lip balm with protection and hand gel (hand sanitiser). I totally underestimated amount of toilet paper I used but it is easy to buy on the way and also snacks which you can buy everywhere along the trek. If you have some outdoor gear or clothing you are going to replace for new, the local crew will be happy to give your old things second life. It is both appreciated and needed. If you like taking photos, take good camera with you on this trek. The scenery is just breathtaking.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you love mountains you will love Nepal. But Nepal is also so much more than just the mountains with beautiful and peaceful culture and religion and friendly people. Just go there with your heart and mind open, embrace it´s beautiful culture and religion and leave behind you a nice footprints wherever you travel. From Himalaya I take with me beautiful memory I will keep in my heart.

Trekking to Everest Base camp

If you want an adventure this is the trip for you. Beautiful mountains, rivers, forests, bridges and great guides that look after you and show you the wonderful mountains and tradition of the Sherpa traditions. Everything is catered for and your day is planned you are encouraged with every step you make our guide was exceptional and help me to achieve Base camp .

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching base camp

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was exceptional he was your Freind mother father doctor and mentor all at the same time especially when the high altitude begins to keep in without him I don't think I would have made my goal of Base camp it was his encouragement and advice that got me there a true credit to him

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just listen to your guide and enjoy the whole experience

Is there anything else you would like to add?

High Passes to Everest Base camp - Awesome!!

This is a trip for the physically fit person, who has a strong mental attitude, if you are both of these then its one of the best trips you can do. The views and scenery are the best in the Himalayas. The flight to Lukla is not for the feint hearted but is an experience you will never forget!
18 days walking, with 9-10 days around 5000m+ is hard work, but with preparation and the right equipment then its definitely do-able. Out of a group of 14, 100% completed the 3 passes and made it round, which was a great effort. However only 2 did all 5 peaks plus the 3 passes.
I would recommend this trip to people who have walked at altitude before and are fit and mentally tough.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

All 5 peaks and 3 passes are incredible, not to be missed if you are feeling strong and healthy. My personal favourite views were Gokyo Peak, Chukkung Ri, Awi Peak (as its so quiet and has great views) and the Renjo La pass. Also the flight to and from Lukla is something everyone should experience.

What did you think of your group leader?

Pasang and his team (including Sujit, Kami and Giradie) were faultless, great local knowledge, inspirational leadership, very helpful and reassuring about health issues, altitude and generally supporting the team through the many ups and downs we all experienced (there were so many more ups by the way).

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Read the trip notes, its a great trip, but not for everyone, 18 days in a row is very tough but also very rewarding. The following items I found to be really helpful:
Sawyer water filtration system, cold/flu meds, throat/cough sweets (everyone got a cough at somepoint), down jacket and sleeping bag, diamox, hand gel, walking pole, good head torch, dry bags/stuff sacks, toilet roll/tissues, solar battery recharger, buff or face scarf for dust/sun protection.
Things i should have taken: lip balm/sun protection for lips, olbas oil/vix (sinuses get blocked easily due to dust).

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A great trip, really friendly group of people to travel with. I recommend it, but its really suitable for those people who are experienced, have previously been to altitude and are fit and mentally tough. If you are these things, you will enjoy it so much more than if you are not.

HIGH PASSES TO EVEREST BASE CAMP (TNG)

I though I would be the only one finishing this trip, what with some bad food and respiratory issues, only 2 out of seven of us finished this trip. Apart from the points I have mentioned earlier I would like to stress that this trip is marked "TOUGH" that means you have to put some training in or you will struggle to complete this trip, your weekend country walks are not going to cut it.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The inspirational moment for me was summiting the first pass, I then new I would be able to complete the trip fully and of course the Blue lake at Tokyo Ri summit.

What did you think of your group leader?

I found Gele B to be helpful and straight forward, his English is a little difficult to understand sometimes but overall he was good toward with.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Careful what you eat, get some training in and importantly bring a good dust mask for the smog in Kathmando and the dust out on the mountains.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Apart from my traveling companions I enjoy the trip very much and would defiantly try something similar.

Everest High Passes

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the passes and peaks and I loved getting to Everest Base Camp

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader was Gele, he's inspiring and knowledgable of the area. We felt completely safe in his care. His English was excellent and he genuinely cares about our success. He is a credit to exodus.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take a steripen to sterilise your water it will save you a lot of money.
Be fit as this trip is not for the faint hearted and to be fit means you will enjoy the experience all the better.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This trip for me was simply wonderful, Nepal is an amazing country and the beauty of the Himalayas will stay with me forever. The organisation of the trek from tea house to tea house was flawless and it meant we never had to worry about anything.
Loved every minute of it.

The trip that delivered on all fronts!

The High Passes of Everest trek was the first trip of this kind that I have done and was my 50th birthday treat to myself. Although I had never experienced altitude before, and had limited walking experience, I felt that I was fit enough and determined enough to take on the challenge of what is described as a 'tough' trek. Our guides stressed the need for a steady pace in order for us to acclimatise properly and be able to cope with many hard days spent at over 5000m. I never felt any of the symptoms of altitude sickness due mainly, I believe, to proper hydration. Along with the other 14 in the group (average age 51.9), I made base camp. Only 6 of us (ave. age 56.8) managed all 5 peaks and 3 passes, so I am justly proud of accomplishing that! The main reason that so few of the group managed all peaks and passes was down to illness, although 2 in the group weren't really fit enough and seemed to want to use the trek as a weight-loss exercise! I also went to Chitwan for 2 nights at the end of the trek. This was a thoroughly relaxing way to end my holiday.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the top of the Kongma La pass was a very emotional moment for me. There were a couple of steep scrambles up to the top, something which I had never experienced before. The feeling of accomplishment was incredible, a very empowering moment, and this being the hardest pass, I knew that I would be able to complete the whole trek.
At Chitwan, bathing the elephants was fantastic, a childhood dream come true!

What did you think of your group leader?

Shailesh Tamang was great! His enthusiasm for the mountains and his pride in his country and people was something very special. His priorities for the group was safety and being able to complete as much of the trek as possible. He coped very well with the few cases of illness (chest infections and sickness/diarrhoea) and with a couple of the group who were much slower than the rest. The rest of his team showed great patience with us all and were always cheerful and positive.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Read the trip notes thoroughly. There are many long, hard days of trekking and you will enjoy the trip far more if you are fit. Drink plenty of water to help with acclimatisation (3-4 litres per day) and avoid tea/coffee.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Reaching base camp was something that I have always wanted to do, but this trip offered so much more. If you enjoy a challenge and being pushed out of your comfort zone, then spend a bit of time getting in good shape before you go and you will really get a great sense of achievement from this trek.

HIGH PASSES OF EVEREST

This was an extremely tough but hugely rewarding trip. I had trained hard before I left which meant that I actually enjoyed every step, now matter how tough it was. My head was up all the time, which is important with the amazing views on offer.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Each summit was a personal achievement and the views incredible, each one inspiring me on to the next.&nbsp;

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leader was good fun but occasionally the constant &quot;ha ha&quot; was inappropriate and somewhat false. He was very young and with experience will grow in maturity I think.However, he guided us well over the difficult passes.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Train hard - you either suffer before you go, or you suffer on the trail! A bit dramatic? Not really. Because I had got a great level of fitness before I left, it meant that even when I had a throat infection thru one the High Passes I was able to continue and enjoy the day, something I would not have been able to do if I was out of shape. I was training 6 days a week in the last 6 weeks before departure (my normal training was 3-4 days a week before that). And I variety of running/circuits/High Intensity and endurance training. Well worth the effort. Age is not an issue - fitness is. Don't turn up unfit or you could ruin it for everyone else.I wore calf recovery sleeves every day when we'd finished. They really work.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Take a water bottle that can withstand boiling water. I had a water system that didnt so I had to buy bottled water. Take your Nalgene bottles (dont leave behind like I did!).I was advised by a reputable retailer that my -5 comfort level sleeping bag would be sufficient for a tea-house trek. It was NOT, I had to beg blankets every night. make sure you have a warmer bag with you.Smart wool socks can last up to 6 days - dont take too many.Bamboo clothing is amazing too - the tops also last many many days, so do the knickers but I'll keep those details to myself. This is really helpful when you have a 10kg weight limit.I took loads of chocolate etc but you can buy this everywhere, i wouldnt take it all again if I went back.Take your book, there is quite a lot of down time, I sacrificed my kindle for weight and wish I hadnt.I took Yaktrax Extreme, which are slightly more expensive, but we had so much snow and ice on the trail but mixed with rocks. the traditional Yaktrax (coils) couldnt take the rocks and broke. The Extreme handled it all really well. &nbsp;&nbsp;

HIGH PASSES OF EVEREST

It was an excellent trip, incredible beauty around and the whole scenery but it was incredibly tough. No matter who you are and how do you feel prepared, all the fat and energy in the body gets burnt first few days and you are left always hungry in between each meal since the food can hardly cover the energy outcome. Its not just the walks but also the constant frost (when starting early mornings well in the teens ...) only with the exception of day light (we had an ideal weather with blue sky all the time though), lack of running water and most likely also oxygen ...

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The High Passes are definitely the most fabulous place to walk ...

What did you think of your group leader?

All our leaders were excellent and always on guard to make sure everybody was alright (which wasn't often quite easy to achieve - everybody of us had his difficult moment during the trip)

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take this trip only after several much shorter stays in comparable altitudes - what is probably most difficult is the length of the trip with basically fortnight stay between 4800 and 5200 metres above the sea level.

Dates & Prices

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An overview of flight options

Exodus is committed to making joining our tours as easy as possible, wherever you live. We generally only block book seats from London, but this certainly does not mean that you need to fly from there. Depending on the route and airlines available, there will usually be various options available for those who want to fly from their local airport.

This page aims to provide a useful overview of the options available to our clients. However, the best flight arrangements should be tailored to your personal requirements, so please contact our Sales team for expert advice.

What kind of options do I have ?

1. We can book for you: Flights from anywhere in the world - not via London

Depending on the route, this may be direct or via an overseas hub like Amsterdam, the Middle East or elsewhere. On short haul routes there may be direct flights with low cost airlines, charter flights or scheduled airlines. Exodus can book most, but not all, of these for you. The most appropriate airline may be different to that which we use for the group flight from London, but many people now travel on different airlines and meet up with their fellow passengers at the destination.

Pros

Cons

May be the most direct route

Often the extra fare compared to the London flight is minimal.

As you will be in the hands a single airline for your entire journey, the airline will be responsible for your bags and your connections.

You may not be able to join the group transfers. However, we can usually arrange private transfers, or book your flights to try and coincide with the group transfers. See notes on transfer arrangements below.

2. We can book for you: Connecting flights from your local airport to London

Exodus can book connecting flights to London so you can join the group flight there. Connecting times will be followed according to airline advice, or as requested by clients. There are two types of fares we can use for this option: a 'through-fare' or a 'published fare'.

a) A 'through-fare' is where you will be in the main airline's care throughout. You change planes, but your bags are checked all the way through to your final destination.

b) A 'published fare' ticket is completely seperate from your onward ticket from London. It is usually cheaper than a through-fare but will need to be paid for and issued as soon as it is booked. This can be a problem if your tour has not yet reached minimum numbers. On 'published fares' neither airline is aware that you have connecting flights, so Exodus is responsible for timing your connection, not the airlines involved. The tickets are also usually non changeable and non refundable.

Pros

Cons

Depending on the fare type, Exodus or the airline is responsible for flight connections.

Through fare tickets can be expensive.

On a published fare, tickets must be issued immediately; tickets on published fares can be very difficult to change if onward flight times change; bags are not checked though to your final destination.

Published fares are non-refundable.

3. Booking some or all of the flights yourself

You can also book connecting air travel yourself, either to London, or all the way to the start point. There may be certain airlines or routes we don't have access to, so this is always an option. However, if you make your own travel arrangements you become liable for any delays, cancellations or missed connections, and Exodus is not required to offer refunds if you have trouble reaching the start of your trip.

Pros

Cons

You might find cheaper fares, or routes not available to Exodus.

You are responsible for any delays or missed connections, and the cost of the tour is not protected should you miss your flight be cancelled.

Notes on transfer arrangements

Sometimes it is possible to travel on a different airline to the group flight from London. Where this is the case, we need to think about ensuring you meet up with the group with minimum extra cost and hassle.

On certain trips, it is easy to arrive on a different flight and still meet the group at the hotel with time in hand. We can usually arrange private transfers (at extra cost) or offer advice on taking a taxi to the start hotel.

On other trips (especially in Europe), the transfer meets the group flight and then travels some distance to the first night's accommodation. Where this is the case, our Sales team will try to arrange flights that arrive before (and depart after) the group. However, we do have to make it clear in your final documentation that if your flights are delayed, the transfer cannot wait for you. While Exodus or our local operators will do what we can to help you reach the start point of the tour, any additional costs must be paid by the client.

Many of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate If you book arrangements other than an ATOL protected flight or a package holiday, the financial protection referred to above does not apply. Our ATOL number is 2582 and our ABTA number is Y0751.

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the NHS has up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more on security, local laws, plus passport and visa information, see https://travelaware.campaign.gov.uk